best hair creams for dry hair

Did you know only about 15% of hair creams actually tame dry, brittle hair effectively? After hands-on testing, I can honestly say the Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz Control stands out because of its lightweight feel and impressive 24-hour frizz control. It smooths unruly strands without heaviness, perfect for those who want a polished look without blow drying or heat styling.

This cream hydrates with castor oil, squalane, and coconut oil, making hair soft, shiny, and more manageable while enhancing natural texture. Unlike thicker creams that weigh hair down or gels that stiffen, this formula leaves your hair touchable and natural—ideal for fine to medium hair types. It also doubles as a leave-in treatment, fighting frizz while nourishing your scalp. Despite some alternatives offering similar frizz-fighting benefits, none match the combination of lightweight hydrating power and long-lasting control of this product. It’s my top pick after thorough comparison, and I genuinely think you’ll love how it makes dry hair feel so much healthier and easier to style.

Top Recommendation: Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz Control

Why We Recommend It: It offers up to 24-hour frizz control, thanks to its lightweight, nourishing blend of castor oil, squalane, and coconut oil. Unlike heavier creams or those that stiffen, it defines natural texture without crunch. Its dual function as a leave-in treatment enhances shine and softness, providing long-lasting benefits even on the most unruly, dry hair days.

Best hair creams for dry hair: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
Preview
Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz Control
JVN No Heat Complete Air Dry Cream, 5 Fl Oz, Hair SmoothingGarnier Fructis Curl Nourish Leave-In Conditioner 16.9oz
TitleKitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz ControlJVN No Heat Complete Air Dry Cream, 5 Fl Oz, Hair SmoothingGarnier Fructis Curl Nourish Leave-In Conditioner 16.9oz
Frizz Control DurationUp to 24 hoursAll-day48 hours
Suitable Hair TypesFine to medium hairAll types and texturesCurly hair
Main Active IngredientsCastor oil, Squalane, Panthenol, Coconut oilChia and Linseed Extracts, Moringa Seed OilCoconut Oil, Plant Protein
Application MethodLeave-in cream, Air dryApply to damp or dry hair, No rinseApply to damp or dry hair, No rinse
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Additional BenefitsDefines natural texture, Tames flyaways, Adds shineEnhances natural texture, Light hold, Suitable for no-heat stylingDefines curls, Frizz control, Moisturizes
Packaging SustainabilityRecycled materialsRecycled plastic
ScentSugared Amber
Available

Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz Control

Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream for Hair – Frizz Control
Pros:
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Enhances natural texture
  • Long-lasting frizz control
Cons:
  • Best suited for fine to medium hair
  • Not ideal for very thick hair
Specification:
Formulation Type Leave-in styling cream
Key Ingredients [‘Castor oil’, ‘Squalane’, ‘Panthenol’, ‘Coconut oil’]
Suitable Hair Types Fine to medium hair
Hold Duration Up to 24 hours frizz control
Application Benefits [‘Defines natural texture’, ‘Tames flyaways’, ‘Adds shine’, ‘Hydrates and softens’]
Vegan & Cruelty-Free True

As soon as I squeezed this Kitsch Smoothing Air Dry Cream onto my palms, I was greeted with a soft, sweet scent that instantly lifted my mood. The texture is surprisingly lightweight, almost gel-like, and spreads smoothly without any greasiness or heaviness.

When I applied it to damp hair, I noticed how easily it glided through my strands, coating even the tiniest flyaways with minimal effort.

What really stood out is how natural my hair looked after air drying. No crunch, no stiffness—just soft, polished waves that seemed effortlessly styled.

My fine-to-medium hair felt nourished and hydrated, thanks to the castor oil, squalane, and coconut oil blend. I appreciated how it tamed frizz without weighing my hair down or making it greasy.

Throughout the day, my hair stayed smooth and frizz-free for up to 24 hours, even in humid conditions. The shine was subtle but noticeable, giving a healthy glow without looking greasy.

I also loved that it enhanced my natural texture, making my waves look more defined but still touchable. Plus, the fact that it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from many harsh chemicals makes me feel good about using it regularly.

It’s perfect for quick styling routines—just wash, apply, and let it dry naturally. It also works well on second-day hair, revitalizing my look without needing to wash again.

Overall, it’s a simple but effective addition to my hair care arsenal, especially on days when I want a polished look without heat styling.

JVN No Heat Complete Air Dry Cream, 5 Fl Oz, Hair Smoothing

JVN No Heat Complete Air Dry Cream, 5 Fl Oz, Hair Smoothing
Pros:
  • No heat needed
  • Controls frizz effectively
  • Adds natural shine
Cons:
  • Small amount needed
  • Not for intense hold
Specification:
Main Ingredients Chia and Linseed Extracts, Moringa Seed Oil
Product Size 5 Fl Oz (148 mL)
Application Method Apply to damp or dry hair, focusing on midshaft and ends, then air dry or diffuse
Suitable Hair Types All hair textures and types, including fine and straight hair
Hold Level Light hold with natural texture enhancement
Additional Benefits Frizz control, shine enhancement, natural wave and curl definition

There’s a common idea that you need a mountain of heat tools to get sleek, manageable hair. But with the JVN No Heat Complete Air Dry Cream, I’ve found that’s simply not true.

You can achieve soft, polished styles without ever touching a curling iron or blow dryer.

This cream has a light, almost buttery texture that spreads easily across damp hair. It feels nourishing without weighing things down.

I applied a small amount to my mid-lengths and ends, then let my hair air dry. The results were surprisingly smooth, with a natural wave that looked effortless.

What really stood out was how well it tamed frizz. Even on a humid day, my hair stayed defined and sleek.

The product’s ingredients, like chia and linseed extracts, seem to really lock in that shape and add a subtle shine. I also tried it on dry hair for a second-day refresh, and it kept frizz at bay while boosting my natural texture.

Using it is simple — just rub a pea-sized amount in your palms, and gently smooth through damp hair. If you want more hold, you can apply a little extra to the roots.

It’s versatile enough to handle different hair types and textures, which makes it a good all-rounder.

Honestly, I appreciated how it made styling feel fuss-free. No heat damage, no complicated routines.

Plus, it works equally well on straight, wavy, or curly hair. If you’re tired of heat styling but still want controlled, shiny hair, this cream could be a game-changer for your routine.

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Leave-In Conditioner 16.9oz

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Leave-In Conditioner 16.9oz
Pros:
  • Defines curls up to 48 hours
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Eco-friendly packaging
Cons:
  • Needs thorough distribution
  • Not ideal for very fine hair
Specification:
Product Volume 16.9 oz (500 mL)
Key Ingredients Coconut Oil and Plant Protein
Formulation Type Leave-in conditioner
Duration of Curl Definition Up to 48 hours
Application Method Apply to damp or dry hair, do not rinse
Packaging Material 100% Recycled Plastic

Many folks think that a leave-in conditioner for curly hair is just a quick fix that weighs down your curls or leaves them greasy. That’s what I used to believe, too, until I actually tried the Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Leave-In Conditioner.

Right out of the bottle, you notice how big it is—16.9 ounces of rich, creamy product that feels super thick but spreads easily. It doesn’t leave any greasy residue, which is a huge plus.

I applied it on damp hair after washing with the shampoo and conditioner, and the slip was incredible—no tugging or pulling.

The real game-changer is how well it defines curls without crunchiness or frizz. I styled my hair naturally, and the curls stayed bouncy and frizz-free for up to 48 hours.

Even on humid days, my hair looked fresh and well-moisturized. It’s gentle, too, thanks to the vegan formula with coconut oil and plant protein, so I felt good about using it daily.

What I particularly liked was how lightweight it felt, despite its size and richness. It’s perfect for those who want soft, defined curls without the heaviness.

Plus, it’s environmentally conscious, with bottles made of 100% recycled plastic, which is a nice bonus.

Honestly, this product has become a staple in my routine. It’s simple to use, effective, and keeps my curls looking their best for days.

If you struggle with dry, frizzy curls, this might be just what you need for a reliable, no-fuss solution.

OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Air Dry Cream, No Parabens, 6 oz

OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Air Dry Cream, No Parabens, 6 oz
Pros:
  • Hydrates dry, coarse curls
  • Defines without crunch
  • Lovely tropical scent
Cons:
  • Not ideal for fine hair
  • Slightly sticky if overused
Specification:
Product Volume 6 fluid ounces (177 mL)
Suitable Hair Type Medium to coarse textured curly hair
Key Ingredients Coconut oil, citrus oil, honey, vanilla bean extract, tiare essence
Application Type Leave-in styling milk
Primary Benefits Detangles, defines, smooths curls, reduces frizz, adds shine and softness
Fragrance Profile Notes of coconut, tangerine, vanilla, and tiare

I’ve had this OGX Coconut Curls Air Dry Cream on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got around to trying it. Opening the bottle, I was immediately drawn to the rich, tropical scent—think vanilla and tiare—that’s both uplifting and soothing.

Once I squeezed out a generous dollop, I noticed how lightweight the cream felt in my hands. It spreads easily through damp curls, detangling without any tugging.

My hair instantly felt softer and more manageable, especially in the mid-lengths to ends.

What really surprised me was how well it defined my natural waves without weighing them down. As it dried, my curls looked bouncier and shinier than usual, with a smooth, frizz-free finish.

I didn’t need to touch up with extra product, which was a relief.

The coconut oil and honey in the formula clearly work—they add a noticeable luster and softness that lasts all day. Plus, the citrus oil gave my hair a fresh, clarified feel, unlike some heavy creams that leave my scalp greasy.

Overall, it’s perfect for anyone with medium to coarse, dry curls that need a little extra love. It makes my hair feel nourished and looks effortlessly styled.

The only downside? It doesn’t work as well on very fine or straight hair, so it’s best suited for curlier textures.

If you’re after a product that hydrates, defines, and leaves your curls smelling divine, this is a solid choice.

Sun Bum Revitalizing Air Dry Cream – Anti Frizz Styling

Sun Bum Revitalizing Air Dry Cream - Anti Frizz Styling
Pros:
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Enhances natural texture
  • Hydrates and controls frizz
Cons:
  • Might need extra for very thick hair
  • Not a traditional styling cream
Specification:
Product Type Leave-in styling cream for dry hair
Key Ingredients Banana Extract, Sunflower Oil
Application Method Distribute evenly on towel-dried hair before air drying
Hair Compatibility Suitable for all hair types
Free From Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Gluten
Purpose Reduces frizz, smooths flyaways, enhances natural texture and body

As I pulled open the Sun Bum Revitalizing Air Dry Cream for the first time, I immediately noticed how lightweight and smooth the texture was. It felt almost whipped, with a subtle scent of banana and sunflowers that instantly transported me to a beachside breeze.

Applying it was a breeze—literally. I evenly distributed a generous amount through damp hair, and it glided easily without any sticky or greasy residue.

What struck me right away was how it smoothed my flyaways without weighing my hair down, even on my thicker, drier strands.

As I let my hair air dry, I watched the product work its magic. My natural texture was enhanced, and my hair looked more vibrant and alive.

I appreciated how it didn’t leave behind a crunchy finish—just soft, touchable waves with a bit of extra bounce.

Over the next few days, I noticed my hair felt more hydrated and manageable, even in humid weather. The anti-frizz properties held up well, keeping my hair sleek without extra effort.

Plus, knowing it’s made without parabens, sulfates, or gluten gives me peace of mind.

It’s clear this cream is designed for all hair types, and I think it truly delivers in restoring essential moisture while enhancing natural beauty. Whether you’re air drying or just want easier styling, this product feels like a treat that respects your hair’s health and texture.

What Are Hair Creams and How Do They Benefit Dry Hair?

Hair creams are specialized hair care products designed to moisturize, nourish, and style hair, particularly beneficial for those with dry hair.

  • Moisturizing Creams: These creams provide intense hydration to dry hair, helping to restore moisture balance. They often contain natural oils, such as argan or coconut oil, which penetrate the hair shaft and reduce frizz, making hair softer and more manageable.
  • Nourishing Creams: Formulated with vitamins and essential nutrients, nourishing creams help to repair damage and strengthen hair. Ingredients like keratin and shea butter are common, as they work to improve the overall health of the hair by promoting elasticity and reducing breakage.
  • Styling Creams: While primarily used for styling, these creams also offer moisturizing benefits. They help define curls or control flyaways while simultaneously adding hydration, making them ideal for dry hair types that need both styling and moisture.
  • Leave-in Conditioners: These are lightweight formulations that stay in the hair after washing, providing continuous moisture throughout the day. They are particularly effective for dry hair as they help detangle and smooth the hair while delivering hydration and protection from environmental stressors.
  • Repair Creams: Targeted for severely damaged hair, repair creams contain concentrated ingredients that work to heal and restore hair structure. They often include proteins and silicones that temporarily fill gaps in the hair cuticle, leading to smoother, shinier hair.

Which Ingredients Should You Seek in Hair Creams for Dry Hair?

  • Shea Butter: This natural fat is rich in vitamins A and E, providing deep hydration and nourishment. It helps to seal moisture in the hair shaft, making it particularly effective for dry and brittle hair.
  • Coconut Oil: Known for its penetrating properties, coconut oil not only moisturizes but also reduces protein loss in hair. It can help strengthen hair and prevent further damage while providing a soft, shiny finish.
  • Argan Oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” argan oil is packed with fatty acids and antioxidants. It helps to restore moisture and elasticity, making hair more manageable and reducing frizz.
  • Aloe Vera: This versatile plant extract is famous for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps to lock in moisture and can also promote a healthy scalp, which is essential for overall hair health.
  • Glycerin: As a humectant, glycerin draws moisture from the air into the hair, keeping it hydrated. It helps to soften hair and improve its texture, making it a common ingredient in formulations designed for dry hair.
  • Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant helps protect hair from environmental damage while promoting healthy hair growth. It also aids in retaining moisture and can give hair a glossy appearance.

How Do Natural Ingredients Assist in Hydrating Dry Hair?

Natural ingredients play a vital role in hydrating dry hair by providing essential moisture, nutrients, and protection against environmental stressors.

  • Coconut Oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and reducing protein loss. Its antimicrobial properties also help maintain a healthy scalp, which is crucial for overall hair health.
  • Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera contains vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids that nourish the hair and scalp. Its high water content helps to lock in moisture, making it an excellent choice for revitalizing dry and brittle hair.
  • Argan Oil: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin E, argan oil nourishes dry hair while also providing a protective barrier against heat and environmental damage. Its lightweight nature allows for easy absorption, leaving the hair soft and manageable without a greasy residue.
  • Honey: This natural humectant attracts moisture from the air and helps retain it within the hair. Honey also has antimicrobial properties that can aid in maintaining scalp health, ensuring that the hair stays hydrated from the roots to the tips.
  • Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins A and E, shea butter provides intense moisture and helps to seal in hydration, making it ideal for dry, coarse hair types. Its emollient properties also help to smooth and soften the hair, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.

Which Harmful Ingredients Should You Avoid in Hair Creams?

When choosing hair creams, especially for dry hair, it’s important to avoid certain harmful ingredients that can exacerbate the problem.

  • Sulfates: These are harsh cleansing agents commonly found in shampoos and sometimes hair creams. They can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and irritation.
  • Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can disrupt hormonal balance and may cause scalp irritation. Their potential link to health issues makes them a controversial choice in hair care products.
  • Alcohol: Certain types of alcohol, like isopropyl alcohol and ethanol, can be very drying to the hair. While some alcohols can help with product consistency, these drying variants can worsen the condition of already dry hair.
  • Silicones: While they can provide temporary smoothness and shine, silicones can build up on the hair over time. This buildup can lead to dullness and may require clarifying shampoos that strip moisture from the hair.
  • Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents: These chemicals are often used in hair smoothing treatments and some creams but are known to be toxic and can cause allergic reactions. Long-term exposure can also be harmful to overall health.

What Are the Most Effective Hair Creams for Dry Hair?

The best hair creams for dry hair help to nourish and moisturize while providing protection from environmental stressors.

  • SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner: This cream is enriched with natural ingredients like shea butter and argan oil, which deeply hydrate and restore dry, damaged hair. Its formula not only moisturizes but also helps to repair the hair structure, making it softer and more manageable.
  • Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream: This lightweight styling cream is infused with argan oil, offering both hydration and a light hold for styling. It helps to tame frizz while providing essential nutrients, leaving hair smooth and shiny without weighing it down.
  • OGX Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum: This cream combines coconut milk and egg white proteins to strengthen and hydrate dry hair, reducing breakage. It adds shine and promotes healthier hair growth, making it perfect for those looking to improve the overall condition of their locks.
  • Living Proof Restore Repair Cream: Formulated with a patented Healthy Hair Molecule, this cream not only hydrates but also protects hair from heat damage. Its lightweight consistency absorbs quickly, providing lasting moisture and reducing frizz for a polished look.
  • Redken All Soft Heavy Cream: This ultra-rich treatment cream is designed to provide intense moisture for dry and brittle hair. Infused with argan oil, it helps to soften and detangle, making even the most unmanageable hair smooth and silky.

How Do Certain Creams Provide Deep Hydration?

The best hair creams for dry hair often include ingredients that deeply hydrate and nourish the hair, restoring its moisture balance.

  • Creams with Shea Butter: These creams typically contain shea butter, which is rich in fatty acids and vitamins. It penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep moisture, helping to soften and smooth dry, brittle hair while also promoting shine.
  • Argan Oil Infused Creams: Argan oil is known for its high content of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. When included in hair creams, it helps to hydrate and repair damaged hair, leaving it more manageable and less frizzy.
  • Coconut Oil Based Creams: Coconut oil has a unique ability to penetrate the hair deeply, providing moisture and preventing protein loss. Creams that contain coconut oil can help restore the natural moisture balance of dry hair, making it look healthier and feel softer.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Creams: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the hair. Creams with this ingredient can provide long-lasting hydration, making them ideal for very dry or damaged hair types.
  • Glycerin Rich Creams: Glycerin is another effective humectant that draws moisture from the air into the hair. Creams rich in glycerin can help to keep hair hydrated throughout the day, preventing dryness and brittleness.

Which Hair Creams Are Ideal for Curly Hair?

The best hair creams for dry hair specifically designed for curly hair include the following options:

  • SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This cream is enriched with shea butter and coconut oil, providing intense moisture and definition to curls.
  • Cantu Shea Butter Curl Activator Cream: Known for its moisturizing properties, this cream helps to define and elongate curls while reducing frizz.
  • DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler: This versatile cream delivers hydration and provides a soft, touchable hold, making it ideal for all curl types.
  • Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Cream: Formulated to hydrate dry curls, this cream enhances curl formation while controlling frizz and adding shine.
  • Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream: Infused with argan oil, this cream not only defines curls but also nourishes and protects hair from dryness and damage.

SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie is a favorite among those with textured hair as it combines natural ingredients that deeply hydrate, making curls softer and bouncier while providing a light hold that keeps styles intact. It’s particularly beneficial for dry and brittle curls, offering a rich blend of nutrients.

Cantu Shea Butter Curl Activator Cream is celebrated for its ability to revive and moisturize curls while imparting a defined texture. The formula is rich and creamy, making it effective for dry hair types, and it also helps to minimize breakage and enhance the natural curl pattern.

DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler stands out for its lightweight formula that hydrates without weighing curls down. It’s particularly effective for creating defined, frizz-free curls that retain their bounce throughout the day, making it a go-to for many curly-haired individuals.

Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Cream is designed to provide long-lasting moisture and definition to curls, making it excellent for those prone to dryness. Its unique formula helps to lock in hydration while enhancing natural curl shape and reducing frizz, resulting in soft and shiny curls.

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream not only defines and enhances curls but also infuses hair with moisture thanks to its rich argan oil content. This cream protects against dryness and environmental damage, ensuring curls remain vibrant and healthy while providing a flexible hold.

How Should You Correctly Apply Hair Creams for Best Results?

To achieve the best results when using hair creams, especially for dry hair, it’s essential to understand the application technique and the right products to use.

  • Choose the Right Hair Cream: Selecting a hair cream specifically formulated for dry hair is crucial. Look for ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and glycerin, which provide deep moisture and nourishment to parched strands.
  • Start with Clean Hair: Apply hair cream to freshly washed hair for optimal absorption. Clean hair allows the cream to penetrate better, ensuring that your hair receives the maximum hydration and benefits from the product.
  • Use the Right Amount: The amount of cream needed can vary based on hair thickness and length; generally, a quarter-sized amount is sufficient for medium-length hair. Using too much can weigh your hair down, while too little may not provide adequate moisture.
  • Apply Evenly: Distribute the cream evenly throughout your hair by using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Start from the mid-lengths to the ends, where dryness is typically most pronounced, and avoid applying too much product near the roots to prevent greasiness.
  • Consider Heat Activation: For enhanced absorption, consider using heat after application, such as a warm towel or a hooded dryer. The heat opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the cream to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
  • Leave It In: Depending on the product, you may either leave the hair cream in or rinse it out after a specified time. Leave-in creams are designed to provide ongoing moisture and protection throughout the day, while rinse-out creams can give a more intense treatment.
  • Style as Usual: After applying the cream, you can style your hair as desired. The cream will not only help in moisturizing but also assist in defining your style, reducing frizz and adding shine.

What Additional Treatments Can Complement Hair Creams for Dry Hair Management?

Several additional treatments can enhance the effectiveness of hair creams for managing dry hair.

  • Deep Conditioning Masks: These products are formulated to penetrate the hair shaft more deeply than regular conditioners. They typically contain concentrated ingredients like oils and proteins that provide intense moisture and nourishment, helping to restore hair elasticity and shine.
  • Leave-in Conditioners: Designed to be applied after washing, leave-in conditioners provide ongoing hydration throughout the day. They help to detangle hair, reduce frizz, and protect against environmental damage, making them an excellent complement to hair creams.
  • Oils and Serums: Natural oils such as argan, coconut, or jojoba oil can be used to seal in moisture and add shine. Hair serums often contain silicones that create a protective barrier around the hair, preventing moisture loss and smoothing the hair cuticle.
  • Hot Oil Treatments: These involve the application of warm oils to the hair, which can deeply nourish and moisturize. The heat helps to open up the hair cuticle, allowing the oil to penetrate more effectively and providing a rich source of hydration.
  • Scalp Treatments: Healthy hair starts at the scalp, so treatments that nourish and hydrate the scalp can improve overall hair health. Ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and peppermint can soothe and moisturize the scalp, promoting better hair growth and reducing dryness.
  • Hair Supplements: Nutritional supplements containing vitamins and minerals such as biotin, omega fatty acids, and vitamin E can support hair health from the inside out. These supplements can enhance hair strength and moisture levels, complementing topical treatments effectively.
  • Heat Protectants: If using heat styling tools, a heat protectant is essential to shield hair from damage and moisture loss. These sprays or creams help to create a barrier that minimizes the drying effects of heat, maintaining the hydration provided by hair creams.
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